ENG6552 - The Continuing Middle Ages

Objectives:

On successful completion of the module, students will be able to:
Analyse the significance of the Middle Ages to post-medieval cultures
Understand the formal and aesthetic characteristics of medieval genres
analyse medieval texts on the basis of an accurate and sensitive reading, informed by scholarship and up-to-date critical investigation
Demonstrate an understanding of the ways in which medieval texts can be modernised
Apply the understanding of these issues in their own creative responses to the Middle Ages

Content:

Through study of medieval and medievalist texts, this module addresses the way in which medieval literature has been appropriated and adapted throughout the post-medieval period. Topics to be covered will include: chivalry; dream vision; Pre-Raphaelitism; popular medievalism; political appropriation; the Middle Ages for children; and antiquarianism versus modernisation.

Learning and Teaching Information:

All contact hours will be given to guided group discussion.

Seminars
Contact hours: 24
Intended group size: 25

Guided independent study
Contact hours: 176

Further details relating to assessment
The Report will consist of a critical overview of a medieval topic and the way in which it has been appropriated in the production of a post-medieval work. The essay may either be a traditional academic essay or a creative writing piece with annotated bibliography.

Assessment: